Acts 8:9-25

Simon the Magician is the first documented heretic in the history of the church. Whilst eventually he came to believe Simon still had selfish motives. He believed the gospel to be true and confessed as much, but wanted the power of the Holy Spirit so he could make money off it.

Arrival of the Spirit

When Peter and John laid hands on the disciples and the Holy Spirit came, that was not to do with the apostles or their hands. This was a one-off instance where God delayed the coming of the Holy Spirit in this region so that the apostles could verify that the gospel is advancing in this region. God did it so that the arrival of the Spirit could be a sign to the believers that God was with them.

Simon wanted that power for himself. He was even willing to offer money for it. But Peter saw right through him. Peter used the power of God to curse Simon, telling him to repent an d change his heart. Notice how Simon responded: instead of praying or repentance he begged Peter to pray for him; to reverse the curse. He was not willing to change his heart.

Two examples; Two paths

Our christian faith can take two paths: we can either be like Peter who did eveything for God's glory, or we can be like Simon who only wanted the power of God for his own glory.